Ian Swanson

A fire that severely damaged the former Debenhams building on Princes Street has cast doubt on Criterion Capital’s plans to convert the property into a Zedwell hotel and pod‑hotel. Structural engineers have determined the top two floors must be removed, forcing a full redesign and a new planning application. Property insiders suggest Criterion may choose to sell the site rather than proceed, as the loss of protected interior features would require major revisions but could also ease development restrictions. Any new proposal is expected to delay redevelopment for years, though ongoing construction along Princes Street means limited short‑term impact on the area’s broader regeneration.